The Challenge of Cultural Diversity in Greece: Reflections on ‘Intercultural Education Schools” (IES) Strategy for Creating Inclusive Learning Environments

Abstract

With the aim of contributing to the discussion on the role of education in societies experiencing significant levels of migration, this article focuses on the ‘Intercultural Education Schools' (IES) established by the Greek State in 1996. Within a highly centralised educational system, IES were considered to be the answer to the need for educational and social integration of minority pupils, especially those who were immigrants. On the other hand, IES have been strongly criticised as marginalised school environments that have failed to manage diversity proactively. Drawing on different sources of data (e.g. interviews, questionnaires, school reports), this article attempts to illuminate the mission of IES, as well as their potential and constraints. The possible impact of IES on the formulation of appropriate strategies for combating educational and social exclusion is also discussed.